Synthetic oil for Honda GL1800

[gunter@rogers.com]

I purchased a 2009 GL1800 this summer. It now has about 52000 miles. I'd like to switch to Amsoil synthetic because of the good reports I've received. Today I was informed the synthetic oils, when introduced to a relatively high-mileage bike can cause problems for the engine. Any sludge build-up would be cleaned out by the detergents in the synthetic, potentially causing the engine to burn oil due to loosened piston rings or to cause valve and tappet problems. How real is this kind of concern?

[WingAdmin]

I purchased a 2009 GL1800 this summer. It now has about 52000 miles. I'd like to switch to Amsoil synthetic because of the good reports I've received. Today I was informed the synthetic oils, when introduced to a relatively high-mileage bike can cause problems for the engine. Any sludge build-up would be cleaned out by the detergents in the synthetic, potentially causing the engine to burn oil due to loosened piston rings or to cause valve and tappet problems. How real is this kind of concern?

This can happen on really, really old engines where the engine seals have worn, and instead the oil is being kept inside by accumulated sludge.

At 52,000 miles, this is not something you're going to need to worry about. You'll be 100% fine switching to any oil, synthetic or not, that meets the requirements for your bike.

[Viking]

I suggest you DO NOT use 10W40 Amsoil unless you operate in very warm climates. Some of us with 2009 Goldwings have reported starting problems on cool mornings where the spragg clutch does not engage when the start button is pushed. We do not see these problems with the 10W30 Amsoil. Wingadmin is correct in his statement that it is really old bikes that could leak when switching to a high detergent lubricant, which all synthetics are. You need fear no adverse effects from the use of Amsoil, with the exception that the 10W40 may cause a small scare. If the spragg clutch problem is not of a concern to you, and you do not mind having to press the start button a couple of times to get it engaged, first start of the morning, then go for whichever weight you want as well. I went to the 10W30 when I got this problem, but still having a case of 10W40 on hand, I am using it again. On a cool morning, I touch the start button to see if the spragg is engaging or if the starter is just spinning. Then I release it if so and touch it again. It usually kicks in on the second time and if not then, for sure on the third.

[billy1st]

I bought mine new in 2006, have only used Honda Syn. I now have 215,186 miles and not had any problems. No smoke or starting problems. Just normal wear, oh and I have done all service myself. I'm seeing 300,000 easy. Just keep all service up and you will not have any problems!

[speedbuggy]

I have a 2007 Goldwing, live in Ontario Canada and I use Amsoil 10w40 full synthetic oil.
I find it runs cooler, smoother and I go about 10,000km (about 7000miles) between oil changes.
NEVER had any problems. Here in Ontario we get all weather and temps. NO PROBLEMS.
Use the Amsoil. Don't worry.
There are a lot of stories out there. If you read about the product, it is recommended for use on
Honda, Spyder and so on.

I find it's the best oil for bikes. I have been using it for years in ALL the bikes I have owned
without ANY problems.

[gunter@rogers.com]

Thanks Speedbuggy. I purchased the Amsoil 10W40 and plan to change oil within the next couple of days. From what I've read, it looks like you're right about the oil - especially in our climate - I live in the Midland area.
Looking forward to seeing if all these improvements I've read about are really noticeable.
Gunter

[mweddy@gmail.com]

I bought my 2005 with about 55,000 miles on it. The previous owner used Mobil 1 10/40 racing motorcycle oil. It was burning a quart per thousand miles. I switched to Shell Rotella T-6 Full synthetic, (JASO MA certified), and the oil burning problem went away. The Shell is a 5/40 oil. I use it in all of my motorcycles. If the oil has been changed regularly, there should be no sludge no matter what type or brand of oil you use.